Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Jie Lu, Guodong Wang, Cuiping Yang, Zehao Peng, Lu Yang, Bowen Du, Chuanzhuang Guo, Songsen Sui, Jianbin Wang, Junlin Li, Ruiming Wang, Junqing Wang
Summary: In this study, an efficient recombinant strain of Escherichia coli was constructed for the production of ss-alanine using glucose as the raw material. The yield of ss-alanine was increased by blocking the L-lysine production pathway and improving catalytic efficiency with a two-enzyme method. By combining key enzymes with a cellulosome, the ss-alanine content reached a high level in a 5 L fermenter.
FRONTIERS IN BIOENGINEERING AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marlene Duarte, Victor D. Alves, Marcia Correia, Catarina Caseiro, Luis M. A. Ferreira, Maria Joao Romao, Ana Luisa Carvalho, Shabir Najmudin, Edward A. Bayer, Carlos M. G. A. Fontes, Pedro Bule
Summary: The cellulosome is a complex multi-enzyme structure secreted by anaerobic microorganisms for efficient degradation of lignocellulosic substrates. It consists of catalytic and non-catalytic components that are assembled through protein-protein interactions. The structure of an adaptor scaffoldin-borne ScaH Doc in complex with the Coh from anchoring scaffoldin ScaE was described, revealing a dual-binding mode interaction and identifying key residues for Coh recognition. Rational protein engineering was used to improve the affinity between the two modules, showing the potential for tailored Coh-Doc interactions in bioengineering applications.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Carl J. Yeoman, Christopher J. Fields, Pascale Lepercq, Philippe Ruiz, Evelyne Forano, Bryan A. White, Pascale Mosoni
Summary: This study provides the first evidence of in vivo competitions between F. succinogenes and the two Ruminococcus species. It shows that a simple disequilibrium within the cellulolytic community has repercussions on the rumen metabolome and fermentation end products. This finding will have to be considered in the future when determining strategies aiming at directing rumen fermentations for animal production.
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Tan Yu-Xing, Nan Xiao-Long, Tan Yan-Liang, Zhi-Jian Zhang, Jiang Wu-Jiu
Summary: Two UO22+ complexes were synthesized and characterized, with crystal structures determined by X-ray diffraction. The complexes exhibited different crystal systems, space groups, and coordination configurations, showing unique thermal stability and quantum chemical properties.
CHINESE JOURNAL OF STRUCTURAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Menglian Li, Shaorui Li, Kexin Zhang, Xin Chi, Hang Zhou, Hai-Bing Xu, Yuexing Zhang, Quan Li, Dong Wang, Ming-Hua Zeng
Summary: This study successfully prepared a simplified two-wheel nanocar through a simple self-assembly method, which can be driven by visible light and dynamically controlled by adding specific substances. STM imaging results showed an organized structure of the nanocar on the graphite surface, laying the foundation for future single molecule manipulation.
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Fang-Hua Zhao, Zhong-Lin Li, Ya-Hua Yu, Shi-Ying Fan, Xiao-Wen Guo, Zi-Hao Zhao
Summary: Two new heterometallic CuEr cluster complexes have been prepared using 3,5-dichlorobenzoic acid and 2,2':6',2''-terpyridine as ligands. The metal-ligand ratios influenced the coordination modes and resulted in different structures for the complexes, which both exhibited ion-pair bicomponent structures. The complexes displayed antiferromagnetic behavior in direct current magnetic susceptibility measurements.
JOURNAL OF CLUSTER SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Xiaopei Wu, Lu Zhang, Xiuyun Wang, Rengang Zhang, Guihua Jin, Yanting Hu, Hong Yang, Zhenzhen Wu, Yongpeng Ma, Chengjun Zhang, Jihua Wang
Summary: Researchers have constructed chromosome-scale genome assemblies for two species of Rhododendron and conducted phylogenetic and whole-genome duplication analyses. They have also investigated gene duplication and gene family expansion, as well as conducted evolutionary analysis of specific genes involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis and stress response. The results provide important genetic resources for molecular breeding and genetic improvement of economically important plants in the Rhododendron genus.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Zhen-Xiang Xia, Kun-Lin Huang, Xin Rong, Sheng-Chun Chen, Ming-Yang He, Qun Chen
Summary: Two new complexes with different structures and thermal stabilities were successfully synthesized through hydrothermal reactions, and they showed reversible structural transformation properties. The ligand in the complexes was also formed in situ through hydrolysis reaction. The catalytic performance of the complexes in the solvent-free ring-opening polymerization of epsilon-caprolactone was significant.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Libing Ke, Fangmian Wei, Xinxing Liao, Thomas W. Rees, Shi Kuang, Zhou Liu, Yu Chen, Liangnian Ji, Hui Chao
Summary: By developing nano-photosensitizers RuS1 NPs and RuS2 NPs, enhanced uptake in cancer cells and improved PDT efficiency were achieved. These nanoparticles can release photosensitizers in high GSH environments while consuming GSH, leading to excellent therapeutic outcomes.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Qingda Liu, Qinghua Zhang, Wenxiong Shi, Hanshi Hu, Jing Zhuang, Xun Wang
Summary: The assembly of polyoxometalate clusters into layered structures, referred to as clusterphenes, has been reported. These 2D structures exhibit uniform hexagonal pores and in-plane electron delocalization properties. The resulting clusterphenes show improved stability and catalytic efficiency, thanks to the electron delocalization within the 2D layer.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Mi Zhou, Yujiang Wang, Guoyuan Yuan, Zhanfeng Ju, Daqiang Yuan
Summary: Two metallo-hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (MHOFs) with different structures and properties were successfully synthesized by self-assembling a phosphate complex and a macrocyclic ligand with three peripheral carboxylic acids. The involvement of phosphate in hydrogen bonding was found to significantly influence the thermal stability, BET surface area, and water vapor uptake capacity of the MHOFs.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Peng Lei, Qianhui Li, Ting Meng, Ke Deng, Junhua Wan, Xunwen Xiao, Qingdao Zeng
Summary: By utilizing scanning tunneling microscopy and density functional theory, the concentration-dependent self-assembly structures of [3]C12TT-TPA at the liquid/solid interface were explored. Increasing the solution concentration led to the construction of five different nanostructures with gradually enhanced molecular packing densities. The study provides insight into the formation mechanisms and stability of two-dimensional functional materials.
CHEMISTRY-AN ASIAN JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Soichiro Yoshimoto, Jinnosuke Kato, Hiroki Sakamoto, Hironori Minamoto, Keita Daicho, Kazuki Takamura, Naoki Shimomoto, Masaaki Abe
Summary: We synthesized mixed-valence ruthenium trinuclear clusters containing dichloroacetates and investigated their self-assembly into a single molecular adlayer on a graphite surface by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The AFM results clearly showed the dynamics of two-dimensional structure formation and the molecular characteristics of the adlayers at different electrochemical interfaces. This study confirmed the importance of metal complex design not only for redox chemistry but also for molecular assembly and nanoarchitecture construction.
Article
Virology
Hao Xiao, Junquan Zhou, Fan Yang, Zheng Liu, Jingdong Song, Wenyuan Chen, Hongrong Liu, Lingpeng Cheng
Summary: The formation of double-stranded DNA viruses involves the assembly of the procapsid mediated by scaffolding proteins, followed by structural rearrangement and expansion to form the mature capsid. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of the procapsid, empty procapsid, empty mature capsid, and mature capsid of bacteriophage P22 were analyzed. The interactions between coat protein gp5 and scaffolding protein gp8 were identified, revealing their roles in procapsid assembly. The structures also showed conformational changes involved in capsid maturation.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Si-Yuan Wang, Zhen-Lang Xie, Xin Dong, Zhao-Hui Zhou
Summary: The three lanthanum aminopolycarboxylates exhibit infinite 2D and 3D structures with different coordination modes, and solid state C-13 NMR spectra show distinct shifts in coordinated beta-CO2 groups. Compound 3 has tunnels with a 5.8 angstrom diameter that selectively adsorb small amounts of O-2, while compound 4 with larger tunnels exhibits adsorption of CO2, O-2, and N-2. Smaller tunnel diameters provide better selectivity for gas adsorption.
NEW JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Carina Esteves, Susana I. C. J. Palma, Henrique M. A. Costa, Claudia Alves, Goncalo M. C. Santos, Efthymia Ramou, Ana Luisa Carvalho, Vitor Alves, Ana C. A. Roque
Summary: This study successfully developed humidity sensors or humidity-tolerant VOC sensors by controlling the effects of humidity on electrical and optical sensors through the design of gelatin formulations. The combination of new materials formulations and sensing mechanisms improved the accuracy and reliability of VOC sensing under different humidity conditions.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Joana N. R. Dias, Andre Almeida, Ana S. Andre, Sandra Aguiar, Pedro Bule, Sara Nogueira, Soraia S. Oliveira, Belmira Carrapico, Solange Gil, Luis Tavares, Frederico Aires-da-Silva
Summary: Anti-CD20 therapies have greatly improved the treatment of B-cell malignancies. However, relapsed and refractory disease continues to be a challenge. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive characterization of canine CD20 expression in a canine lymphoma biobank and discovered overexpression of canine CD20 in B-cell lymphoma samples. Furthermore, genetic sequencing analysis revealed six amino acid differences in the CD20 gene in patient samples. Additionally, we developed a novel strategy for generating anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies with cross-reactivity between humans and dogs. These findings support the potential use of CD20 as a target for veterinary treatments and the development of new therapeutics and immunodiagnostics.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Diogo Coelho, Cristina M. Alfaia, Paula A. Lopes, Jose M. Pestana, Monica M. Costa, Rui M. A. Pinto, Joao M. Almeida, Olga Moreira, Carlos M. G. A. Fontes, Jose A. M. Prates
Summary: This study assessed the impact of a high dietary level of Chlorella vulgaris with and without carbohydrase mixtures on the health and liver metabolism of pigs. The results showed that the dietary level of C. vulgaris affected several blood parameters of finishing pigs and increased their susceptibility to infection diseases. The dietary supplementation with carbohydrase mixtures decreased some blood parameters. Additionally, feeding C. vulgaris increased the hepatic content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in pigs.
RESEARCH IN VETERINARY SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Ines P. Moreira, Carina Esteves, Susana I. C. J. Palma, Efthymia Ramou, Ana L. M. Carvalho, Ana C. A. Roque
Summary: Silk fibroin ionogels exhibit excellent physical properties and biocompatibility, and can play an important role in soft and flexible electronics.
MATERIALS TODAY BIO
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Casper de Boer, Zachary Armstrong, Vincent A. J. Lit, Uri Barash, Gijs Ruijgrok, Ilanit Boyango, Merle M. Weitzenberg, Sybrin P. Schroder, Alexi J. C. Sarris, Nico J. Meeuwenoord, Pedro Bule, Yasmine Kayal, Neta Ilan, Jeroen D. C. Codee, Israel Vlodavsky, Herman S. Overkleeft, Gideon J. Davies, Liang Wu
Summary: Research has shown that by developing effective HPSE inhibitors, extracellular HPSE activity can be reduced, thereby reducing the aggressiveness of cancer and potentially controlling pathological HPSE-driven malignancies.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marlene Duarte, Victor D. Alves, Marcia Correia, Catarina Caseiro, Luis M. A. Ferreira, Maria Joao Romao, Ana Luisa Carvalho, Shabir Najmudin, Edward A. Bayer, Carlos M. G. A. Fontes, Pedro Bule
Summary: The cellulosome is a complex multi-enzyme structure secreted by anaerobic microorganisms for efficient degradation of lignocellulosic substrates. It consists of catalytic and non-catalytic components that are assembled through protein-protein interactions. The structure of an adaptor scaffoldin-borne ScaH Doc in complex with the Coh from anchoring scaffoldin ScaE was described, revealing a dual-binding mode interaction and identifying key residues for Coh recognition. Rational protein engineering was used to improve the affinity between the two modules, showing the potential for tailored Coh-Doc interactions in bioengineering applications.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Filipa Trovao, Viviana G. Correia, Frederico M. Lourenco, Diana O. Ribeiro, Ana Luisa Carvalho, Angelina S. Palma, Benedita A. Pinheiro
Summary: The Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron strain has developed an efficient way to degrade the complex RG-II polysaccharide using BT0996 protein and its three carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs). The CBM at the C-terminal domain, named BT0996-C, shows unique structural features and has the ability to bind to polygalacturonic acid, one of the components of RG-II.
JOURNAL OF STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY-X
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Claudia S. Nobrega, Ana Luisa Carvalho, Maria Joao Romao, Sofia R. Pauleta
Summary: In this study, the crystal structure of the bacterial peroxidase from Neisseria gonorrhoeae was obtained, revealing that cyanide and azide can inhibit the catalytic activity of the enzyme. This finding provides a new strategy for the search and development of inhibitors targeting this enzyme.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Ana S. Andre, Joana N. R. Dias, Sandra Aguiar, Sara Nogueira, Pedro Bule, Joana Ines Carvalho, Joao P. M. Antonio, Marco Cavaco, Vera Neves, Soraia Oliveira, Goncalo Vicente, Belmira Carrapico, Berta Sao Braz, Barbara Ruetgen, Lurdes Gano, Joao D. G. Correia, Miguel Castanho, Joao Goncalves, Pedro M. P. Gois, Solange Gil, Luis Tavares, Frederico Aires-da-Silva
Summary: Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a rapidly growing therapeutic class in oncology, but they face significant engineering challenges. To develop more stable and effective ADCs, researchers explored the potential of rabbit-derived VL-single-domain antibody scaffolds (sdAbs) to selectively conjugate a payload to Cys80.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Meeting Abstract
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
D. O. Ribeiro, B. A. Pinheiro, J. L. A. Bras, L. M. Silva, Y. Zhang, Y. Liu, T. Feizi, C. M. G. A. Fontes, A. L. Carvalho, W. Chai, A. S. Palma
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Monica M. Costa, Luis B. Pio, Pedro Bule, Vania A. Cardoso, Marlene Duarte, Cristina M. Alfaia, Diogo F. Coelho, Joana A. Bras, Carlos M. G. A. Fontes, Jose A. M. Prates
Summary: This study evaluated the potential of an enzyme called ulvan lyase to degrade the cell walls of green macroalgae and release nutritive compounds. The results showed that ulvan lyase was the most efficient enzyme in disrupting the cell walls and promoting the release of reducing sugars and monosaccharides. However, there was no significant release of fatty acids, proteins, or pigments. These findings suggest that ulvan lyase has the potential to enhance the bioaccessibility of bioactive products from green macroalgae for use in the feed industry.